Veterans Day 2012

For heroism and extraordinary achievements in aerial flight as a Combat Aircrewman of a Patrol Bomber Squadron TWENTY EIGHT during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific War Area from Jan 25 – April 6 1945. Participating in twenty missions during that period.

Joe also was in active combat from April 6 –May 26 1945. He was 19 years old

From the White House:

To you who answered the call of your country and served in its Armed Forces to bring about the total defeat of the enemy, I extend the heartfelt thanks of a grateful nation. As one of the Nation’s finest, you undertook the most severe task one can be called upon to perform. Because you demonstrated the fortitude, resourcefulness and calm judgment necessary to carry out that task, we now look to you for leadership and example in further exalting our country in peace.